DNR RFB Peterson Hatchery Solar Thermal Repair

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is soliciting bids under Request for Bid 2027-392 for repair and restoration of the solar thermal heating system at Peterson State Fish Hatchery in Fillmore County following flood damage. Written questions are due to Contract Officer Christine Eck by November 9, 2026, and bids are due November 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central. Targeted group, economically disadvantaged, and veteran-owned businesses certified by the State receive a 12 percent preference in points, and DEED/DHS eligible providers receive a 6 percent preference.

Work includes flushing and removing the existing pump, piping, and propylene antifreeze; furnishing and installing a new pump or state-approved equivalent; resetting the expansion tank; replacing, insulating, and air-testing associated piping; and supplying approximately 1,400 gallons of 50% propylene antifreeze. Contractors must also provide operations and maintenance manuals and training. Exhibit F includes specification sheets for the ecocirc XL circulator, which carries UL 778 and cUL C22.2 #108 listings.

Prime contractors must show at least two verifiable contracts completed since September 2021 with similar scope and construction values of $20,000 or greater. The Project Manager and Job Superintendent each need at least five years of experience on similar contracts of $20,000 or greater. Contractors cannot have been found in default, had contracts terminated for cause within 36 months, or received willful or repeated OSHA citations with final orders issued within 36 months. Building construction contractors must be registered with the Department of Labor and Industry before award. Prevailing wage applies under Minnesota Statutes 177.30–177.32 and 177.41–177.44. Non-Minnesota contractors face an 8 percent withholding on cumulative calendar-year payments exceeding $50,000, unless exempt.

Responses exceeding $50,000 require a solicitation bond equal to 5 percent of the bid amount. An award of $175,000 or more requires a payment and performance bond before Notice to Proceed.

Work takes place at Peterson State Fish Hatchery, 28376 County Road 25 South, Peterson, Minnesota 55962. Crews work Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with substantial completion due December 24, 2026 and final completion due December 31, 2026.

The State will award to the lowest responsible vendor meeting all specifications and terms, on a lump-sum basis, and may award items separately, by group, or by total. Unit prices must include labor, materials, tools, transportation, equipment, and sales and use tax. Direct Pay Permit 1114 does not apply. Payment is made within 30 days of an undisputed invoice under Minnesota Statutes 16A.124.

The prime must submit a First-Tier Subcontractors List before contract execution, identifying each subcontractor's certification status as a Targeted Group, Economically Disadvantaged, or Veteran-Owned Business. Additional subcontractors must be listed within 14 days of retention. A Contractor Affidavit must be filed with the Department of Revenue before final payment.

Responses must be submitted electronically through the SWIFT Portal, and email and fax responses are not accepted. Bidders must complete the Vendor Qualification Form (Attachment E) and respond to the latest event version, or the bid may be rejected. Site visits are arranged through Project Supervisor Patrick Hebner at 651-259-5983 or Patrick.Hebner@state.mn.us. Portal assistance is available from the Contractor Assistance Help Desk at 651-201-8100, Option 1.